Chat rooms or similar tools are used for synchronous (real-time) communication. Two or more users are logged in to the class at the same time and take turns posting and replying to messages. (See the chart for tips on participating in synchronous discussions.)
Chat is a challenge in a classroom setting. With only a few people chatting, it’s easy to navigate and stay on track, but when a full class is online, it can be difficult. Chat comments don’t always stack up in order, so unrelated posts appear between comments that are closely related. If you use personal chat or social networking posts to stay in touch with friends, you may be accustomed to exchanging sly or funny remarks. Such behavior is fun during personal chats but inappropriate in a class setting.
Monitor your chat contributions and work to be constructive and to keep a useful chat moving along. Think about your instructor’s purpose for holding a chat session, and try to be a constructive contributor. Remember that you are building an identity and reputation during these chat sessions, and you want to be seen as a thoughtful, intelligent contributor.
Live chat among members of a peer review group
Tips for participating in synchronous discussions
Chat discussion exploring a subject
Related topics:
Home page or welcome page
Course content units
Discussion forums
Course e-mail
Other tools
Syllabus
Assignments
Announcements
Talking and listening to explore ideas